How do you change a chainsaw ripper chain? Best Rating 2023 | Professional chainsaws (2023)

AChainsaw breaks the chainis kind ofChainspecially designed for cutting large, thick logs or wooden boards. It typically has large, aggressive teeth capable of cutting through thick wood quickly and efficiently. Ripper chains are commonly used by professional lumberjacks and carpenters and are typically used in conjunction with apowerful chainsaw. They are not recommended for general pruning or trimming of small branches or trees.

If yourChainsaw breaks the chainis an exercise for youRip chain for a chainsaw. What intensity should you aim for? Regular use of chainsaws can produce a similar result - sawdust - but that's not something you should aim forBest chainsaw chain for snapping. If you want to get professional results from your chainsaw, then you need to get professional results from yoursChainsaw rip bar and chain. Below is a list of tips to help you split wood and get professional results from your chainsaw.

What is a broken chainsaw chain?

Asnapping chainsaw chainis a type of chain specifically designed to cut wood along the grain, also known as ripping. It typically has a wider gauge and fewer cutting teeth than anormal chainsaw chain, allowing for a deeper cut and faster removal of wood fibers.Breaking chainsare commonly used by professional lumberjacks, carpenters and woodworkers and are usually used in conjunction with a powerful chainsaw. They are not recommended for cross cutting or general pruning. Ripping chains are typically used to cut larger logs and planks of wood.

The chain guide on your chainsaw is important as it ensures you have a straight line of motion as you workRip chain for chain saw millexercises. You should check the chain guide regularly and replace it if it is worn. In fact, replacement parts for chainsaws are like thatchain guidemay need to be replaced periodically throughout the life of your chainsaw.

How do you change a chainsaw ripper chain? Best Rating 2023 | Professional chainsaws (1)

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How do you modify a chainsaw chain to snap?

Modification of a chainsaw chainWhen ripping, the cutter teeth and depth gauges on the chain must be adjusted to optimize them for cutting wood along the grain. Here are some steps you can followmodify a chainsaw chainto rip:

  1. Measure the depth gauges (also called rakers) on the chain. Ripper chains usually have deeper depth gauges than standard chains, so you'll have to file them down to get the right depth.
  2. File the cutting teeth on the chain. Ripper chains typically have fewer teeth than standard chains, so you'll need to remove some of them to get the right number of teeth.
  3. Grind the top plate of the chain. Ripper chains typically have a flatter top plate than standard chains to prevent binding when ripping.
  4. Adjust the angles of the cutting teeth. Scarifier chains typically have steeper angles on the cutter teeth to optimize cutting of wood along the grain.
  5. Check the sharpness of the chain. Rip chains require a sharper edge than standard chains for an efficient cut.

It is important to note that modifying a chainsaw chain to snap should be done with the proper equipment and knowledge of the chain. If you are inexperienced in chainsaw chain maintenance, it is best to have it done by a professional. Ripper chains also usually have specific and unique designs for the ripping task, so it's a good idea to buy a new ripper chain rather than converting a standard chain.

How do you find the right ripper chain for your chainsaw?

IfChoosing a ripper chain for your chainsaw, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. Here are some things to consider:

  1. Check chain size and pitch: Ripping chains come in a variety of sizes and pitches, so it's important to make sure the chain you choose is compatible with your chainsaw. Most chainsaw manufacturers provide information on the recommended chain size and pitch for their products.
  2. Consider the size and type of wood you will be cutting: if you are cutting large logs or planks, you will need a chain with larger teeth and a deeper gauge. If you're cutting softer woods, you may be able to use a chain with smaller teeth.
  3. Look for a chain with a low-vibration design: snatching can be hard on hands and arms, so look for a chain designed to reduce vibration.
  4. Look for a chain with an aggressive tooth design. Ripping chains typically have larger, more aggressive teeth designed to cut through thick wood quickly and efficiently.
  5. Check the sharpness of the chain: Rip chains need a sharper edge than standard chains for an efficient cut.
  6. Look for a chain with a special rip design to ensure the best performance.

It is always recommended to check the manufacturer's specifications and recommendations for yourschainsaw modeland make sure the chain you choose meets the requirements. It's also a good idea to consult with professional lumberjacks or carpenters who have experience using ripping chains. They may be able to provide valuable insight into the best options for your specific needs.

How do you change a chainsaw ripper chain? Best Rating 2023 | Professional chainsaws (2)

How does a ripper chain differ from a normal chainsaw chain?

ARip chain is different from a regular chainsaw chainin various ways, specially designed to cut wood along the grain, also known as ripping. Here are some key differences:

  1. Number of Teeth and Design: Ripper chains typically have fewer teeth than a standard chain, allowing for a deeper cut and faster removal of wood fibers. The teeth are also typically more aggressive to allow for a faster and more efficient cut.
  2. Depth Gauges: Ripping chains typically have deeper depth gauges (also known as rakers) than a standard chain, allowing for a deeper cut and faster removal of wood fibers.
  3. Top Plate: Breaker chains typically have a flatter top plate than a standard chain to prevent binding when breaking.
  4. The Angle of the Cutters: Ripper chains typically have steeper angles on the cutters to optimize cutting of wood along the grain.
  5. Sharpness: Ripper chains require a sharper edge than standard chains for an efficient cut.
  6. Vibration: Ripper chains typically have a low-vibration design to reduce stress on hands and arms.
  7. Special Design: Tearing chains have a specific and unique design to optimize the tearing process, which is why they are not recommended for general pruning or cross cutting.

It is important to note that ripping chains are typically used for larger logs and lumber and are not recommended for general pruning or cutting of small branches or trees. And to use them, you'll need a powerful chainsaw that's up to the rigors of ripping.

How do you change a chainsaw ripper chain? Best Rating 2023 | Professional chainsaws (3)

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How do you sharpen a snapping chainsaw?

Sharpening a snapping chainsaw chainis an important step in maintaining the performance of the chain and extending its lifespan. Here are some steps you can follow to sharpen asnapping chainsaw chain:

  1. Secure the chain: Clamp the chain in a vise or use a chain holding tool to keep it steady while you work.
  2. Determine the correct file size: Ripping chains typically require a larger file size than standard chains. Check the manufacturer's information for the correct file size.
  3. File Burrs: Holding the file parallel to the burrs, file each burr at the same angle and with the same number of strokes. Be sure to file each cutter evenly to maintain chain balance.
  4. File the depth gauges: Use a round file to file the depth gauges to the correct depth. Be sure to file all depth gauges evenly to maintain chain balance.
  5. Check Tension: After sharpening, check the tension of the chain and make sure it is taut enough so that it will not come loose from the guide bar during use.
  6. Check the sharpness: Check the sharpness of the chain by running your thumb over the edge of each cutting tool. If the chain is sharp, your thumb should not catch on the edge.

It is important to note that sharpening a chainsaw chain should be done with the proper equipment and knowledge of the chain. If you are inexperienced in chainsaw chain maintenance, it is best to have it done by a professional. And always wear protective equipment such as gloves, safety goggles and hearing protection.

Finally, watch how thoseChainsaw chain to snapcuts wood along the ground. A normal chain cuts along at a 45 degree angle to the groundchain direction. An adjustable angle saw lets the wood grain run across the width of the chain. This results in a finer tear chain. Setting your chainsaw to a fine, even 10 degree angle will produce a fine drive cut and clean finish.

Snapping chain in Alaska chainsaw mill

AChainsaw Mill in Alaskais kind ofportable sawmillwhich attaches to a chainsaw and is used to cut logs into lumber. The ripper chain for an Alaskan chain saw mill is a specialty chain designed to cut along the grain of the wood.

Ripper chains for chainsaw mills in Alaskahave several characteristics that set them apart from standard chainsaw chains. They have fewer teeth than a standard chain, allowing for a deeper cut and faster removal of wood fibers. The teeth are also typically more aggressive to allow for a faster and more efficient cut.

The depth gauges (rakers) are typically deeper than a standard chain, allowing for a deeper cut and faster removal of wood fibers. In addition, the top plate is flatter to prevent binding when tearing. The angle of the cutting teeth is steeper to optimize cutting of wood along the grain and they are sharper than standard chains for an efficient cut.

It is important to note that Alaskan chainsaw rippers are typically used for larger logs and lumber and are not recommended for general pruning or cutting of small branches or trees. Also, it is always recommended to check the manufacturer's specifications and recommendations for your Alaskan chainsaw model and make sure the chain you choose meets the requirements.

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(Video) Chainsaw Chain Types Explained

FAQ

Modifying a chainsaw chain to rip rip requires adjustments to the cutter teeth and depth gauges on the chain to optimize it for cutting wood along the grain.

Sharpening a snapping chainsaw chain is an important step in maintaining the chain's performance and prolonging its life.

A ripping chain differs from a regular chainsaw chain in several ways, which is specifically designed to cut wood along the grain, also known as ripping. Here are some key differences:

When choosing a ripper chain for your chainsaw, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. Here are some things to consider:

A ripping chainsaw chain is a type of chain specifically designed to cut wood along the grain, also known as ripping. It typically has a wider gauge and fewer teeth than standard chainsaw chain, allowing for a deeper cut and faster removal of wood fibers.

FAQs

How is a ripping chain different? ›

The cutters on ripping chain cut at a lower angle than those on standard chainsaw chain – 10 degrees versus the standard 30 degrees. Ripping chain also cuts along the wood's grain instead of against it. As a result, ripping chain removes smaller chunks of wood and is less aggressive, despite what its name suggests.

What is a ripper chainsaw chain? ›

Ripping chain is chainsaw chain designed specifically for cutting with the grain. Ripping chain is always micro chisel or semi chisel chain which features a re configured cutting angle of 10 degrees.

Is a skip tooth chain the same as a ripping chain? ›

A skip tooth chain has every other tooth or more, removed. Hence the name 'skip tooth'. A ripping chain is designed to cut with the grain of the wood. This is different to regular chains that cut across the wood grain.

Does a ripping chain cut faster? ›

Ripping chains are slower as the finer cut and surface takes more time than regular cutting.

Can you sharpen a ripping chain? ›

All Granberg ripping chain should be sharpened to 10 degrees on both the scoring and clearing cutters. If you are using a bench mounted chain sharpener, use 0 degree tilt and 60 degree top plate cutting angle and the same disc size as you would for your regular chain of the same gauge.

Why do loggers run chainsaw bars upside down? ›

Flipping the bar will give the heavily-used areas some relief from wear and tear. Using upside down chainsaw bars from time to time keeps your cuts more efficient and accurate. As a bar wears out, it won't hold a chain in place as well, and the chain will move laterally more easily.

How do you sharpen a ripping chain on a chainsaw? ›

Ripping chains are usually sharpened at a 10-15 degree angle. I set the miter gauge and the depth stop, and then started grinding every other tooth. It took maybe a few minutes total. Then, I pivoted the miter gauge to 10 degrees the other direction and sharpened the other teeth.

What is the toughest chainsaw chain? ›

The most aggressive chainsaw chain is either a full chisel, or a chisel skip chain. A Full Chisel is an aggressive chain on chainsaw bars that are 24”or less. When cutting deep, long cuts with a bar longer than 24”, a Chisel Skip Chain is most efficient and aggressive.

What is the fastest cutting chainsaw chain? ›

The fastest cutting chainsaw chain is either a full chisel or a chisel skip chain. The full chisel offers the fastest and most aggressive cutting action for chainsaw bars that are 24” or less. For bars that are longer than 24”, choose a chisel skip chain.

What chainsaw chain do professionals use? ›

Full chisel chains

Typically only professionals and experienced chainsaw users use full chisel chainsaw chains. They are typically used to cut through hardwood such as oak as their square-cornered cutting teeth are more geared up to power through the wood.

What degree is teeth in a ripping chain? ›

Ripping chain is a regular chain, factory sharpened with a ten-degree tooth cutting angle. It is most commonly used for slabbing & ripping posts. Designed for cutting with the grain it creates a smoother cut compared with standard 30-degree cross cutting chain.

What width is ripping chain? ›

Ripping chain is 3/8" pitch and features a special factory grind for making dimensional boards and planks from timber by “ripping” it (cutting parallel to the wood grain).

How tight should chainsaw chain be? ›

A properly-tensioned chainsaw chain should still be just a little loose on the chainsaw guide bar, but the chain needs to be tight enough that you can't pull the drive links out of the bar nose.

How do you remove a chain without a master link? ›

If you have a standard chain with no master link: Seat the chain in the chain tool, with the pin of the chain tool aligned with a pin in the chain. Turn the handle of the chain tool until you push the pin out far enough that you can break the chain.

How do you remove a chain link without a tool? ›

If your bike chain has a master link, remove the link by twisting it off with a pair of needle-nose pliers. Press the nubs through to the other side to fully remove the link. You may need to use a hammer or wrench to tap the link so that it pops out allowing the chain to separate.

How do I take my chain off? ›

Removing the chain

Find the quick link on your chain. It is distinguished by its gaps near the chain pins. Take the quick link pliers and fit each end on either side of the quick link. Squeeze the pliers together and the chain should separate.

What type of chainsaw chain is best? ›

  1. Overall Best Chainsaw Chain—Oregon S62 AdvanceCut Low Kickback Chain. ...
  2. Best Chainsaw Chain for Hardwood—Stihl 3610 005. ...
  3. Best Chainsaw Chain for Softwood—Oregon L68. ...
  4. Best Full Chisel Chainsaw Chain—Forester Full-Chisel Chain Loop. ...
  5. Best Semi-Chisel Chainsaw Chain—Oregon S39 Semi-Chisel Chain Loop.

What type of chain is best for firewood? ›

If you're looking for chains that work on hardwood and firewood, semi chisel is the best option. Full chisel chains are specifically designed for hardwood and can cut through them quickly.

Why does my chainsaw blade dull so fast? ›

Contact With The Ground

With a single contact with the ground while running, a chainsaw can become very dull. This is because the ground contains sand and dust which is abrasive and contains a lot of tiny rocks. To avoid such occurrences, avoid cutting wood placed on the ground.

How should rip saws be sharpened? ›

Crosscut saws typically have 15-20 degrees of fleam. In order to sharpen the crosscut saw, every other tooth is sharpened 15 degrees in one direction, the saw plate is flipped, and then every other tooth is sharpened 15 degrees in the opposite direction.

How long should a chainsaw chain last between sharpening? ›

A chainsaw may only need to be sharpened once a year if it is rarely used, but a tool that is frequently used will need to be sharpened regularly to ensure that the blade doesn't get too dull. On average, a chainsaw blade will retain its sharpness for about 3 hours of actively cutting through wood.

Is it better to sharpen or replace a chainsaw chain? ›

Sharpen before replacing

If your chainsaw chain becomes dull after a long lifespan, it will struggle to cut through the wood at the efficiency it once had. This is why, where possible, you should be looking to keep the will be chain sharp, as sharpening a better course of action than sourcing a replacement.

Is it better to chainsaw wet or dry wood? ›

It may come as an eye-opener to some. But wet wood is actually much easier to cut than dry wood. With dry wood lacking moisture content, more friction is created as the chainsaw chain comes into contact with the wood fibers. This friction results in the chain slowing down.

How many cc should a good chainsaw have? ›

The larger the displacement, the more power generated by the explosion of the compressed fuel/air mixture that drives the piston. If you're harvesting and working up several cords of firewood a year, you'll want a saw with between 45 and 55 cubic centimeters (cc) of displacement.

How many times can a chainsaw blade be sharpened? ›

A chainsaw chain can be sharpened up to 10 times, sometimes more, before the entire chain needs replacing. It's mostly dependent on two things; the amount of wear your chain incurs and the amount of metal removed every time you sharpen. Different materials can have a harder impact on the chainsaw chain.

What angle chainsaw sharpening is best? ›

Always hold the file at a right angle (90°) to the guide bar. The file only sharpens on the forward stroke – lift the file off the cutter on the backstroke. Rotate the file a little at regular intervals while filing to avoid one-sided wear.

What is the number one chainsaw in the world? ›

1. Husqvarna 135 - BEST CHOICE CHAINSAW 2022. The Husqvarna 135 is our best all around chainsaw of 2020 because it's a well-balanced chainsaw with few vibrations and a lot of power. It's best suited to homeowners with both small and large trees to maintain.

Is there a chainsaw chain that stays sharp? ›

Picco Duro. The world's first carbide-tipped, low-profile saw chain. Stays sharp, without resharpening for up to ten times as long as standard saw chains with substantially longer durability, even under extreme loads. Additionally, the Picco Duro is low in vibration and has a low kickback tendency.

What is the strongest chain made? ›

Grade 100. Next to Grade 120, Grade 100 chain is the strongest type of chain offered by most industrial hardware suppliers. It is 25 percent stronger than Grade 80, making it the best choice for extremely heavy overhead lifting use and other extreme applications.

Why does my chainsaw chain stretch so fast? ›

The friction from cutting through wood makes the chain very hot and the heat causes it to loosen. The heat expands the guide bar and when it cools, the chain has stretched. The chain will also loosen as it wears down from use.

Should I use a full chisel chain? ›

Full-chisel chains are ideal for cutting large pieces of wood because of the square-cornered teeth which makes them cut more aggressively. The full-chisel will dull quicker than a semi-chisel because for this reason. It may not give a clean cut like a semi-chisel chain, but it can speed up sawing.

What is the best Stihl chain for cutting firewood? ›

For the best Stihl chainsaw for cutting firewood, we refer back to our recommendation of the Stihl MS 261 C-M. In addition to this saw being our top recommendation overall, its M-Tronic engine management system auto-adjusts the fuel mix to keep the saw running no matter what you're cutting (or where).

What chainsaws do tree surgeons use? ›

Usually, petrol chainsaws are used for tree felling and electric chainsaws are more often used for tree pruning or cutting shrubbery.

What are the five best chainsaws? ›

Top 5 Best Chainsaws
  • Best Kit: Makita XCU03PT1 Chainsaw Kit.
  • Best For Small Tasks: BLACK+DECKER LCS1020B Cordless Chainsaw.
  • Most Lightweight Chainsaw: Greenworks 20262 Cordless Chainsaw.
  • Best Handle: BLACK+DECKER LCS1240 Cordless Chainsaw.
  • Most Heavy-Duty Chainsaw: Husqvarna 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw.

What is the most common chainsaw chain? ›

Most saws use 0.325", 3/8", or 0.404" pitch, with 1/4" less common. Most consumer saws use a type of 3/8" chain called "low profile". We call it Picco. A few older saws use 1/2" pitch chain.

How many teeth blade for ripping? ›

Ripping solid wood: Use a 24-tooth to 30-tooth blade. You can use 40-tooth to 50-tooth multipurpose blade as well, but it will take longer. Cross-cutting wood or sawing plywood: Use a 40-tooth to 80-tooth blade. You can use a 40-tooth to 50-tooth general purpose blade as well.

What angle is Stihl ripping chain? ›

Designed to take on the tough demands of professional lumber processing applications, the STIHL RMX Ripping Saw Chain features a semi-chisel type cutter and shallow 10° filing angle. The shallow 10° filing angle results in excellent performance in the ripping cut.

Is more teeth on a chainsaw chain better? ›

The rule of thumb is that a saw blade with more teeth means a smoother cut and fewer teeth means a faster cut.

What's the difference between a ripping chain and a regular chainsaw chain? ›

The cutters on ripping chain cut at a lower angle than those on standard chainsaw chain – 10 degrees versus the standard 30 degrees. Ripping chain also cuts along the wood's grain instead of against it. As a result, ripping chain removes smaller chunks of wood and is less aggressive, despite what its name suggests.

How do I know what size chain my chainsaw takes? ›

To get a chain that is the correct size you need to count the drive links (those little teeth on the underside of the chain). One tip is to place a strip of tape on the first link and count your way around. You need to know exactly how many there are to get the correct chain size for your chainsaw.

What is the difference between skip tooth and full chisel? ›

Full chisel chains are most popular for professional chainsaw use and offer clean efficient cuts. Skip tooth chains have wider gaps between the cutting teeth, reducing the drag on the chain. Less power is needed to cut through wood with a skip tooth chain. The best chain depends on the task and user.

How do you adjust chain tension? ›

Adjust the tension in the chain by using a wrench to loosen the axle nut. Go slowly, making just two or three full turns. Your bike will most likely have a bolt that can be turned to adjust the chain slack. Adjust gradually with quarter-turns, making sure to re-measure the slack each time.

Why does my chainsaw chain go tight then loose? ›

This one is basic science - when metal gets warm, it expands. As you use your saw, it is naturally going to heat up and get larger. Therefore, a chainsaw chain can start off tight and then loosen up.

Why do you flip a chainsaw bar? ›

Flipping the bar will give the heavily-used areas some relief from wear and tear. Using upside down chainsaw bars from time to time keeps your cuts more efficient and accurate. As a bar wears out, it won't hold a chain in place as well, and the chain will move laterally more easily.

Do you put bar and chain oil in chainsaw? ›

Chainsaws have numerous moving parts, but the parts that need the most attention are the bar and chain. If your chainsaw chain is running slowly or your fuel tank runs dry much more quickly than it should, chances are pretty good that you need to add bar and chain oil - and quick.

Does bar and chain oil go in the chainsaw? ›

Gas chainsaws use about one tank of bar and chain oil for every tank of fuel, so fill the reservoir every time you fill the tank.

Do you have to use echo chain for Echo chainsaw? ›

A: Hi Rev! Thank you for your inquiry. The ECHO Chainsaws are designed for use with the ECHO chains only.

How do you cold start an Echo chainsaw? ›

❄️ Cold start:
  1. Activate the chain-brake.
  2. switch the on/off switch to the on position.
  3. Activate the choke.
  4. Push the primer bulb 3-8 times.
  5. Pull the starter handle until you hear the engine tends. ...
  6. Switch off the choke.
  7. Pull the start handle again until the engine runs.
Sep 25, 2019

How tight should chain be on Echo chainsaw? ›

ADJUSTMENT, CHAIN TENSION

Hold the bar nose up and tighten the chain until there is no clearance between the bar and chain. Tighten both guide bar nuts with bar nose held up, to eliminate clearance. Pull the saw chain around the guide bar by hand. Loosen the adjustment, if you feel tight spots.

Why does my Greenworks chainsaw chain keep coming off? ›

Generally, Chainsaw chains come off the bar due to worn-out bars, worn-out sprockets, and wrongly set tension. Please keep in mind that new chains tend to stretch; so be sure to check the chain tension frequently and tension as required.

How do you adjust the T screws on a chainsaw? ›

T Screw - Next, locate the T screw. This adjustment screw is responsible for adjusting the chainsaws idle. Begin by turning the T screw clockwise until the chainsaw chain begins to move. As soon as you notice it moving, turn the T screw counterclockwise slowly until the chainsaw chain stops.

How do you stretch a chainsaw chain? ›

Every chainsaw has a tension screw that's located at or close to the base of the chainsaw bar. If you want to tighten the chain, turn the tension screw clockwise. If you want to loosen up the chain, turn the tension chain counterclockwise.

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